Why are you involved in CASA? First, I believe the innocence and wonder of a child is the world’s gold and the potential of every child is priceless. My greatest gift was the opportunity to see and experience the world through our son’s eyes and now through our granddaughters’. This wonder and potential must be preserved in all children whether they are related to me or not.
Second, I had two experiences with CPS as a child, due to neighbors having misconceptions about our family and culture. They weren’t horrible experiences, but they weren’t pleasant either. When I realized CASA’s purpose, it made me wish I/we had had a CASA when I was 6 and 13.
What first caused you to get involved with CASA? My husband and I were exploring adoption. Through that process we were asked to consider becoming foster parents, which lead to learning about CASA. The concept of being a voice for a child resonated with me immediately, so I started the process to become a CASA/GAL. However, my husband was transferred again for work, so I delayed my training and chose to support CASA as a community volunteer and donor for nearly 25 years until I was invited to join the Board of Directors.
What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? Their laser focused vision and single minded mission. Every month when I hear Don Binnicker read a success story aka Mission Moment, at the beginning of our meetings, it re-affirms why I am here and inspires me to do more.
What would you say to a potential supporter? There is no greater sound than the laughter of children. Want to change the world? Help a child laugh. It’s infectious. You will be changed. Yes, there will be times of difficulty, however the rewards are far, far, greater. Every minute impacts not only the child for whom you’re advocating, but also the community as a whole.
What do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? CASA of Tarrant County is right here! We focus on the communities within Tarrant County and recruit volunteers who live here and understand the different cultures and norms of area families. When you support CASA of Tarrant County, as a resident you too get to experience the amazing results of your money or time. It creates a self-perpetuating cycle of positivity.